Craftsman style house has a long history in America. It has a unique and distinct characteristic that most people love. Its interior and exterior hold specific details that can be found in no other kind of houses.

People are lured by its artistic architectural details, such as elegant roofline or front porch.

In fact, there are more than that in a craftsman style house and you need to know why it is one of the most popular type of houses in America.

First of all, a little bit of its historical background will help you ease in.

History of craftsman style house

This America’s popular house was actually born in Britain. Around 19th century, Britain was undergoing an industrial revolution.

At that time, handcrafted product made by individual worker had lost its value due to the flourishing mass production from machines.

Thankfully, there was British Arts and Crafts Movement who stood against the phenomenon. They took back the dignity and precious value of handcrafted products.

When it came to America, some of its “over-decorating” trait was decreased to meet the demand of American middle class.

Later on, the house was known for its originality, simplicity, local and natural materials, and the beautifully visible handicraft. That’s where the name “Craftsman” came from as well. To easily identify this type of house, you need to be familiar with its characteristics.

Characteristics of craftsman house
A craftsman house can easily be identified through some unique features. Those features are visible on both exterior and interior designs.

On the exterior, there are some distinctions you can recognize: Entryway that’s lined by pillars, nice front porch that’s covered, wide eaves with exposed rafters, hanging windows and dormer or skylight in a more modern term.

Meanwhile, the interior of a craftsman house also has particular features, such as fireplace that becomes the most prominent part of the house, built-in storage and, basically, a lot of woods.

As you hope to own a craftsman house in the near future, we’d like to show you some craftsman style house ideas that might interest you!

Craftsman Style House Ideas

A lot of people say that a craftsman house feels like a real house, because it feels warm and welcoming.

Perhaps, those feelings come from the fact that the house is built with characters. Well, it is true that a craftsman house has its own peculiar personality that draws people in to like it.

These are some beautiful craftsman house ideas for your new home, and let’s see if any of these gives you the warmth and welcome!

The lining pillars appear sturdy, supporting the eaves. Moreover, the lighting on the front porch adds more warmth to the entire house.

2. Exposed Brick Walls Craftsman House

The house shows up with a unique idea of utilizing bricks for exterior decoration.

The exposed bricks emphasize the idea of simplicity that a craftsman doesn’t have to be exuberant to appeal.

3. Sage Green Craftsman House

The exterior appears modestly with a simple front yard garden layout. Moreover, the covered front porch is illuminated by a rather warm ambience, making it feels like home.

4. Grand Fireplace in A Craftsman House

The prominent fireplace comes with a built-in that can be used for anything: bookshelves, cabinets or display.

The lighting fixtures give out a balanced combination between the wood accents and the ambience.

5. Craftsman Wood Beam Highlight

The prominent fireplace is obvious, so let’s just focus on the elegant wood beams on the ceiling. They give the house a really strong character.

6. Craftsman Unique Windows

What’s craftsman without its unique windows?

The symmetrical placement of the windows in this idea is brilliant, inviting natural light into the living room, making the room comfortable.

7. Classic Craftsman Kitchen

This classic craftsman kitchen is rich with woodwork. The cabinets, breakfast bar and the dining table are made of wood with strong brown tones.

8. Modern Craftsman Kitchen Design

Getting rid of the wood in the kitchen, you can still leave some on the ceiling.

Those wood beams appear sturdy against the white ceiling, giving the kitchen a classic craftsman atmosphere.

9. Sleek Craftsman Kitchen Idea

This is a combination between classic craftsman kitchen and modern lighting.

The set of cabinetry is made of excellent wood, which is enhanced with the ambience created by the fixture above.

10. L-shaped Craftsman Kitchen Cabinet

This L-shaped rustic kitchen cabinet is well-designed. It uses only one particular tone of wood on the set of cabinetry, leaving the vent in black to emphasize the beautiful details.

11. Craftsman House in A Tropical Island

The style of this craftsman is so tropical. The coconut trees are lining alongside craftsman’s unique pillars.

The overhanging eaves appear to mimic tourist resorts in Bali that makes you feel like vacation every day!

12. Open Concept Craftsman Dining Room

This formal dining room is decorated with an exuberant chandelier. Moreover, the dining room can be seen directly from the kitchen counter, making the room feels wider and not stiff.

13. Craftsman Dining Room with A Grand Fireplace

The fireplace becomes the center of the room and its warmth tightens the bond of the family during supper.

Even though it’s lacking natural wood accents, the beams are still very craftsman.

14. Extra Seating Space in Craftsman Kitchen

Craftsman house is made for a big family, providing extra seating space directly under the hanging windows like so is perfect. You’ll also find the woodwork in this idea wondrous.

15. A Curved Craftsman Entry Way

This craftsman house has a unique entry way; It kind of look like an entry for hobbits in Tolkien’s movies.

The beauty also lies on the stone beauty. The stone as natural material emphasizes the house’s originality.

16. Craftsman-style Bedroom

This bedroom shows simple woodwork because it only has little furniture. Looking closely, this set of furniture is made with amazing details. So, it is simple, yet it is also crafty and artsy.

17. Huge Craftsman Windows

One of the most noticeable features of a craftsman house is its huge windows.

This bedroom has a nice layout positioning the headboard against the windows, so the natural light doesn’t blind you when you wake up.

19. A Little Craftsman Bedroom

This bedroom may be small, but it has good size windows and an opening to a private porch. The uniqueness is also seen from the ceiling, which gives the room a character.

20. Natural Accents Craftsman Bedroom

The wall is painted with a lighter tone of brown, while it is topped by the strong, dark brown color of the furniture (nightstand, bed, dresser and vanity), so the woodwork on the furniture becomes the center of attention.

21. Tall Craftsman Door

The simplicity of this tall craftsman door style is shown by its minimum detail, yet sleek design. The plants and the lighting fixtures speak about how the owner wants to keep it simple.

The kitchen island is one of the most versatile spaces in the home. It can be used for a whole variety of activities – cooking prep, homework, morning coffee with the paper. In order to make sure that your kitchen island works for you, install lighting that simultaneously accommodates diverse tasks and provides the hub of your home with a bit of style.

This isn’t as daunting as it seems! Below we share seven kitchen island lighting ideas and a bit of general kitchen lighting advice to help you map out your lighting plan and get the look you’re after.

The Kitchen Island Rule of 3

If you conducted a “kitchen island lighting ideas” survey among lots of interior designers, the odds are, the most common response would be the rule of three. The use of three pendants in a row to light up the island has been a gold standard in kitchen design. While the number may seem arbitrary, this arrangement not only provides adequate illumination when sized correctly, but it also creates a soft, visual balance.

Hot Tips:

The type of pendant you choose for the kitchen is largely dependent on the size of the island. Select a pendant that when featured in threes occupies the length of the island while also leaving about 12-18” of space in between.
If you’re looking for lighting ideas for the kitchen sink, consider purchasing four pendants – three for the island and one for above the sink basin.
Don’t let the pendants block your sight. To make sure you’ve got a clear view, suspend pendants either 72” from the floor or 30-36” above the island’s countertop.

Breaking the Rules

As with most trend rules, the rule of three can be easily broken. More and more you’ll see designers lighting kitchen islands by opting for two large pendants instead of three smaller ones. Two larger pendants will give you the opportunity to make a bit of a statement.

Really Breaking the Rules

If you’re really going for kitchen rule-breaking, toss the idea of 2 and 3 pendants out the window and really go for it. Strategically suspending multi-light pendants above the island gives a magical cluster effect while providing necessary lighting for all your kitchen tasks.

Lighting with Multiple Multi-Pendant Fixtures

Multi-pendant lights are a great way to mix and match the rules. For a look that is balanced yet different, combine the multi-pendant fixture and the rule of two to uniquely illuminate the kitchen island.

Go the Distance

A simple, elegant way to illuminate a kitchen island is to select a single, long fixture, or linear suspension, that runs the length of the island. It’s both minimal and effortless.

Let the Kitchen Be the Star

If you’d like the kitchen island to do all the talking, consider lighting the island with hidden, yet powerful recessed lighting. If you light the kitchen with recessed lighting alone, it is especially important that you install a dimmer. This will make up for the lack in texture and will give you versatile lighting for all tasks and moods.

Who Doesn’t Love a Good Chandelier?

While a chandelier in the kitchen is not the most common kitchen island lighting idea, it can certainly pack a visual punch.

Depending on the size of the island, of course, you may be able to get away with only hanging a single chandelier. If this is one of the lighting ideas that appeals to you, look for a chandelier that branches outward. The more horizontal ground it covers, the more you’ll evenly illuminate the kitchen island space.

Do you want to design the perfect home office? Learn how to choose the right home office design, furniture and décor to stay focused while working from home!

There’s some obvious benefits to working out of your home office: you can set your own hours, wear PJs all day, and have a lot more control over your workday. But there’s some definite downsides as well—whether it’s your cats wanting a cuddle or those dirty dishes calling to you from the sink, there are plenty of distractions around the homestead. Thankfully, great home office design can help you focus.

The right home office setup will improve productivity, and give you the space and energy to work on more important things, like building your online portfolio so you can land more clients. Gotta find some way to pay for that new roof somehow! (Don’t have an online portfolio yet? Just find a website builder that can create a professional online portfolio in minutes, so you can focus on the big picture. Check out our guide on how to showcase your best work on your site.)

Looking for some home office ideas? Here are some tips for designing your home office that are sure to keep you focused on what really matters.

Home Office Design

Make sure your home office is as separate as possible from the rest of your home. While it’s important to make your home office cozy and welcoming, it should be designed to bring your focus back to the work you’re doing.

Home Office Organization

The key to home office organization? Keep it tidy. When you go to your home office to start work for the day and the space is cluttered and messy, you’re more likely to find somewhere else to work (like the couch, or even your bed). This can lead to your brain associating a variety of spaces in your home as workspaces, which makes it more difficult to separate your work life from your home life, a necessity for maintaining good mental health.

Home Office Setup

Everything in your home office should be functional, and organized with productivity in mind. Here are a few tips for an optimal home office setup:

As a creative, you probably end up splitting your time between hands-on artistic creation and admin work. If you have the space, it may make sense to keep these two areas separate from one another. For example, you could keep your easel and paints in one corner, and your desk—set up with your computer and files—in another corner.

If you don’t have the room for two separate work areas, separate the two in your mind by completely clearing your workspace before shifting to a different type of work. This can mean putting away your drawing supplies before getting your laptop set up for an invoicing session. The simple act of keeping these two types of work separate can help you to focus in on your current task rather than having a bunch of things racing around your head when you need to concentrate.

Have a bunch of little social media shoots coming up? Maybe you need to photograph your new line of crafts to sell in your online store. Consider painting one wall a rich shade that photographs well, or install a few different photo backdrops. Just make sure your color choice reflects the hues in brand guidelines!

Small Home Office Ideas

We don’t all have a ton of space in our homes to dedicate to a home office, so making the most of the space you do have is key. Here are some space-saving ideas:

Make use of smart design options, like this chair and table system that folds away onto the wall like a murphy bed. This is also a great way to keep your work life separate from your home life—only fold it down when you are ready to get to work!

Increase your storage space by installing shelving wherever you can fit it. Take a good look at the space you’ve set aside for your home office, and identify areas that can accommodate your various needs. If the square footage of your home office is limited, consider putting in storage higher up on the wall, so it doesn’t cut into your work area but still provides the storage space you need.

Get crafty when it comes to deciding where in your home to locate your office. Do you have a guestroom whose only guests are your skis and old yearbooks? Maybe there’s a nook next to your washer and dryer, or even an unused corner of the basement. If your only option is to convert a small part of your main living area into your home office, make sure to face your desk against the wall rather than looking out into the room at all of the potential distractions that can take your attention away from your goals.

Home Office Cabinets and Home Office Shelving

Your home office will likely be the backdrop for some of your social media content, so you want it to look good. This is where designing the right combination of home office cabinets and home office shelving comes in! Take a peek at our pointers:

Install a cabinet with lots of storage space, drawers, and doors to cover up what you’re storing. Then, you can place some more aesthetically pleasing items on the top of your home office cabinet, while the real clutter is safely out of sight.

Got some open home office shelving? Only store the cute stuff there: stack them with design books, inspiring fabric samples, or art related curios – anything that gets you smiling. This way, you’re not annoyed by piles of ugly clutter every time you look at the wall.

Consider setting up a home office wall organizer. Having a few different writing surfaces—whiteboard, chalkboard—alongside office supply storage and some handy corkboards will free up room on your actual desk to spread out more and get creating faster.

Home Office Furniture

How do you find home office furniture that is both practical and fabulous? Here are some tips on how to pick the perfect pieces:

Home Office Desk

The ideal home office desk combines efficient design with comfort and style. Consider these questions when deciding on your perfect home office desk:

Are you a minimalist designer, or do you hoard all of the craft supplies you can find with the intention of maybe one day turning them into art? If you’re the former, you may prefer a sleek, understated desk with one or two drawers, whereas the latter type could benefit from a desk that incorporates a variety of storage options. Browse some different styles of desks in order to get a sense of what will work best for your purposes.

Are you the type of creative who prefers sitting, standing, or the option to do both? Adjustable standing desks are becoming more and more popular with the realization that sitting for too long can lead to health issues. As a creative, you might want to switch up your perspective once in a while, so consider investing in a home office desk with adjustable height.

Is your home office desk used only for computer tasks, or are you also using it as a workspace for sketching ideas, inking illustrations, or other hands-on artistic work? If you’re planning on doing artwork at your desk, a drafting table where you can adjust the angle of your desk can be a great option.

Home Office Chairs

Working in any desk chair for extended hours can do damage to your body, especially when you’re up late at night editing photo proofs or hunching over some detail work on a big art project. If you’re going to be spending a lot of time sitting in your home office chair, make sure to invest in one that is ergonomic, so you can focus on your work rather than your aching body! (And, ideally, you should try and test them out in person.) Here are some key things to look out for when choosing your home office chair:

Adjustable seat height: No two bodies are built exactly alike, so a chair with adjustable features will allow you to customize your chair to fit you perfectly. Your feet should be able to rest flat on the floor, and your knees should be slightly below your hips in order to ensure good posture through all those late night photo editing sessions!

Lumbar support: Many typical office chairs offer some sort of curved backrest to support your lumbar spine, but ideally, this feature should also be adjustable, so that you can fine-tune it to fit your body’s specific needs. Insufficient support for your lumbar spine can lead to back pain, so taking some of the pressure off will enable you to spend more time working on what you love and less time (and money!) on massage therapy for your aching back.

Swivel base: Nobody spends their entire day in their office chair just staring straight ahead in one direction. Inevitably, you will find yourself moving and rotating throughout your workday. Without a swiveling base feature on your home office chair, you may experience back strain over time.

Home Office Décor and Home Office Accessories

The ideal home office décor and home office accessories should keep you inspired, and remind you of your goals. Here’s how:

Add some houseplants. They improve air quality, and can give you a sense of calm. You can get a low-light plant if your home office is a little on the darker side.

The decor within your line of sight should remind you of your purpose, and bring your focus back to the tasks at hand. You may want to design a vision board of sorts to emphasize what matters most, your career goals, and what success means to you. This could even take the form of a gallery wall.

Think about what inspires you and surround yourself with things you love. Select things that evoke creativity within you. Maybe you’ve been lucky enough to do some world travelling, and mementos from those times will remind you of the places you’ve seen and the different perspectives the world has to offer. If you find yourself drawing inspiration from other creators, this would be a great time to hang up some artwork you’ve collected to keep your brain firing in creative directions.

Don’t be shy about hanging your own artwork up, either! Surrounding yourself with recent work that you are proud of and that reflects the stuff you’re working on can be a great inspiration and self-esteem boost for those inevitable times where the pressure is getting to you and you start to doubt your creativity. Use your home office space to remind yourself that your unique point of view is powerful and worth sharing.

You know all those beautiful coffee table books you’ve been hoarding but never knew how to put them to good use? Your home office is the perfect place to put them on display, plus they offer a great distraction for when you need to take a break from your hustle but don’t want to veer too far off track (because you know once you start watching Netflix it’s gonna be real tricky to get back in that working mindset)!

Don’t Be Afraid to Tweak!

Once you have your basic home office design ready to go, you can take your time adjusting things depending on how your needs and wants develop. Maybe you thought you would be using that desktop easel a whole lot more than you actually are, so it makes sense to relegate it to a more remote area of your home office—or get rid of it altogether. You can always make little tweaks and add or remove things as you go.

A streamlined, personalized workspace filled with positive vibes will keep you focused on what matters and lead to more productivity. Once you’re all set, you’ll have so much more glorious time to work on your portfolio. And that’s the dream, isn’t it?

Want to learn more about working from home?How to Find Fantastic Freelance Design JobsHow Four Artists Use Their Websites to Sell Their WorkTips for Taking Your Side Hustle to Main Gig

This canopy bed uses ties to fasten draperies to posts for easy access to the bed.
In medieval Europe, canopy beds were used by the elite to provide privacy from their servants. Centuries later, they remain a symbol of opulence, but the focus has transitioned from function to luxury. Since the 16th century, when ornate carvings began to adorn bedposts and headboards, canopy beds have become works of art rather then just merely a place to rest one’s head. However, while this bedroom piece is artful on its own, the right decorative treatment can take the existing luxury and romance to a whole other level.

Modernizing a Tradition

Because of the canopy bed’s history, this piece often incorporates elements of traditional design. To reference tradition while making a statement with a modern canopy bed frame, keep things simple by draping a single panel of fabric over the cross beams. Let the ends hang long down each side, with the panel dipping slightly in the center to add dimension. Play with placement or add additional panels. A sheer fabric softens the design, while a heavy or textured fabric adds boldness.

Lights Out, or Not

Create a magical haven by surrounding yourself with the soft glow and twinkle of white lights before falling asleep. Hang string lights within sheer, wrapped fabric on the cross beams of your canopy or string and hang the lights around the beams by themselves. The sparkle of the lights will take the romance of your canopy bed and really, your entire bedroom, to a whole new level.

Luxury, Meet Functionality

Perhaps you are thinking that drapes and billowing fabric sound good in theory but really aren’t all that practical. For a solution that marries function and luxury, use large rings to attach fabric panels to the bed frame. This provides the ability to quickly open and close as needed. You can also use decorative rope, ribbon, tassels or fabric to tie panels back to each post of the bed for easy access.

Amp Up the Personality

Starfish hanging on the posts of a canopy bed infuse the room with a beach house mood.
Give your canopy bed some unique character by hanging decorations from posts, cross beams or the ceiling above for a punch of added interest. Some decor ideas include paper lanterns, decorative stars, beads, garlands, floral or greenery, ribbons, a chandelier or dripping crystals. This is a creative way to solidify the design theme of your bedroom.

A galley kitchen consists of two parallel runs of units forming a central corridor in which to work. The galley layout works well for all kitchen styles; it’s also the preferred design of many professional chefs, who love it because it enhances safety and efficiency during cooking. Just like the compact galley on ships, for which the layout is named, galley designs optimize space by packing in an abundance of storage and work area, making them ideal for small kitchens. If you’re considering a galley layout or revamping one you have, here’s what you need to know.

What is the Right Appliance Layout for Your Kitchen?

1. Assess your space. Though galley kitchens work best in small spaces, they can also be good for medium-sized kitchens, such as the one pictured here. However, be aware that if the opposing runs are too far apart, the kitchen will lose its efficiency. (This kitchen gets it right.)

Also know that a galley layout, while ideal on a professional level, is usually an enclosed space without a dining area. That means that if there’s no possibility of opening up the space, it’s potentially not the most sociable of arrangements. On the other hand, a galley layout in an open-plan space can offer the best of both worlds. (Read on for details about galley kitchens with islands.)

2. Choose your galley look: Symmetrical … When it comes to galley kitchens, there are two layout preferences. The first is relatively symmetrical, as seen here. This usually means the length of the runs and the arrangement of units on each side mirror each other as much as possible — or as much as you want.

… or asymmetrical. You can opt for an asymmetrical layout instead, using various approaches. One involves focusing tall cabinets or a bank of appliances on one side of the room, with base and wall units on the other. Or you can go with a mix of tall and wall units along one side, with a single run of base units on the other if, for example, you have an open-plan space, as pictured here.

3. Put tall cabinets on one wall. If you’re designing a galley kitchen as described above, it’s preferable to go for a wall length of at least 12 feet so the sink and cooktop can be placed far enough away from each other. For safety, these should be at least a foot apart, but since that wouldn’t leave any work space, we always try to site them more than 3 feet apart. In this arrangement, a run of 12 feet allows for sufficient sink capacity, with cabinets or drawers beneath the range — occasionally adaptation is required for top drawers in this scenario — and it ensures that all the major appliances fit.

Finally, 12 feet allows space for the units on the opposite run — the fridge, oven housing and pantry storage, for example. This arrangement provides ample storage space, helping keep the kitchen tidy and the countertops free of clutter.

4. Or break up the run. You might prefer an asymmetrical layout with tall and base units along the same wall. For example, if a wall is just over 12 feet long, it’s likely to have three tall housings at one end and three base units at the other. Typically, there would be wall units, floating shelving or a window above the base units. Along the opposite side you could have wall units, shelving, a window or even a clear wall.

This arrangement works really well if the kitchen is quite narrow, since without a tall bank of units as you enter the kitchen, the space will feel more open.

Browse Thousands of Inspirational Galley Kitchen Photos

5. Work with a galley corridor. Depending on the layout of your home, galley kitchens may or may not be closed off at one end. If the far end leads to another room or the garden, it will see heavy traffic because it will become a thoroughfare.

Depending on the number of people in your household, this may not be a problem, but if you have small children or pets, you won’t want them charging through the kitchen while you’re holding a sharp knife or a pan of boiling water.

You can enhance the safety of your layout — particularly where the corridor is very narrow — by planning your kitchen with the sink and cooktop on the same run. Though less efficient than having those features opposite each other, this arrangement focuses your appliances in one area, so you won’t have to turn to the opposing run with potentially dangerous items in your hands.

6. Enhance a closed-off kitchen wall. A galley kitchen closed off at one end can be a safer layout, because there’s only one entrance, giving the cook greater awareness of others coming and going. But how to make good use of this wall space? It might be there’s a window here, in which case it’s important not to block your kitchen’s natural light. Adding a stool would let you sit at the far end to write out shopping lists or chat on the phone.

Alternatively, there might be room for some open shelving, a nice painting or perhaps a family-friendly chalkboard wall, as seen here, which can be used for playful drawings and notes or for shopping or to-do lists.

The clever use of the mirror in this compact kitchen is also worth noting; it creates the impression of a bigger space.

7. Create a galley with an island. I’ve mentioned that enclosed galley kitchens may not be the most sociable setting for the cook. A popular adaptation, when space allows, is the inclusion of an island.

In this kitchen, the island replaces one of the runs to become part of the kitchen layout and functionality. It sits parallel to the longer run of units and typically houses either the range or the sink. Whichever of those is not positioned in the island would be staggered on the opposing run rather than directly opposite. This staggering is safer and more efficient during cooking, because it reduces the amount of turning required between the sink and stove.

8. Make your galley sociable. Some homeowners want to add an island to a galley layout yet intend to keep the additional work surface clear. This is often the case with bakers, who like to use the space for rolling out pastry.

This was part of the goal for the kitchen seen here, which was designed for a professional recipe developer who worked from home. Her kitchen also had to accommodate the needs of her husband and two young children, and the seating on the far side of the island helps with this, keeping the kids safely clear of the cooking area but ensuring a more sociable arrangement than a standard galley would have.

9. Add seating. Sometimes there’s space for a small peninsula or breakfast bar in a galley kitchen, providing additional storage as well as dining space. Here, the peninsula at the far end of the kitchen is fully clear of the cooking zone and has seating on the far side. (It also doubles as a butcher block.)

If there’s space to add a table between the opposing runs of your galley kitchen, this can sometimes work. However, you need to be careful when planning the space, because if it pushes your work surfaces too far apart, they’ll be much less efficient.

Adding a small cart as an extra work surface might be an effective alternative, although in most cases there’s sufficient counter space in a galley to eliminate the need for this — unless it’s a specialized addition such as a butcher block.

10. Enhance a sense of space. When considering a galley layout, homeowners are keen to avoid a “corridor” effect, in which the kitchen feels small and enclosed. But even in small spaces, there are ways to avoid this.

As already mentioned, losing the continuity of tall units in favor of wall units or shelving will help open up the space. The choice of furniture also helps: High-gloss finishes in pale colors are best for reflecting light and enhancing a sense of space. Similarly, doors and drawers without handles give a clean look and take up less physical space than handled ones.

Finally, lighting is key. Well-placed and oversized lighting will soften the kitchen’s look and create the impression of more space.

A kitchen island makes everything from cooking to dining a breeze. Discover these inspiring kitchen island ideas and start planning the kitchen of your dreams

You may be dealing with a cramped galley kitchen right now, but that lack of counter space isn’t forever. Someday you’ll have room for a toaster and a coffee maker and be able to spread out with your very own kitchen island—the MVP of the home. From cooking prep to casual dining to storage, these workhorses do it all (and add an architectural focal point). So it’s no wonder that more and more renovations include the addition of a kitchen island. We’ve gathered stylish spaces from the AD archives that are full of kitchen island ideas for any style. Find inspiration for your future remodeling project in these kitchens by top architects and designers. Whether you dream of creating a spot for nightly homework, gourmet meals, or morning coffee, a practical and beautiful island will be the most used area in the house.

Add Seating

In the kitchen of designer Ray Booth and television executive John Shea’s Nashville, Tennessee, home, Roman Thomas pendant lights are installed above the Booth-designed island, Ann Sacks tile was used for the backsplash, the sink fittings are by Kohler, and the stools are by BDDW.

Install a Waterfall Island

Painted in a Benjamin Moore white, the kitchen of a Nova Scotia home designed by Alexander Gorlin is centered by an island clad in Caesarstone; the stools are by Gus Modern.

Mix Marble and Metal

The kitchen of Nate Berkus and Jeremiah Brent’s former New York apartment is outfitted with cabinetry and butcher-block countertops by Fanuka; the island is clad in unlacquered brass and topped with Breccia Imperiale marble from Artistic Tile. The marble shelves rest on brackets from Liz’s Antique Hardware; the subway tile is from Home Depot, the painting of Saint Peter is an 18th-century work from Peru, and the barstools are vintage American.

Make an Impact with Mirrored Surfaces

The symphony of reflective surfaces in the kitchen of a Manhattan penthouse by Jean-Louis Deniot includes the polished stainless-steel panels on the Deniot-designed island, a Guy de Rougemont free-form chrome-top table, and metallic wallpaper by Phillip Jeffries; the circular artwork is by Astrid Krogh, and the vintage swivel chairs are by Le Corbusier, Pierre Jeanneret, and Charlotte Perriand.

Go for the Gold

The centerpiece of designer Jamie Drake’s New York kitchen is a custom-made island comprising cabinetry finished in gold leaf by the Alpha Workshops and an overlapping table in Corian with gold inlay; the pendant lights are by Drake, the counter stools are by the Bright Group, and the tabletop sculpture is by Reinaldo Sanguino.

Add Country Charm

At Tom Brady and Gisele Bündchen’s former Los Angeles home, designed by architect Richard Landry and decorator Joan Behnke, antique Tunisian tile from Exquisite Surfaces makes a lively backsplash in the kitchen, which is appointed with Formations pendant lights, marble countertops from Compas Architectural Stone, custom-made alder cabinetry, an oak island, and a Wolf range.

Create Extra Storage

At a Bel Air, California, home designed by Kelly Wearstler, lanterns by Blend Interiors hang in the kitchen, which features alder-wood cabinetry and a stainless-steel-clad island with brass trim. The bespoke brass-and-cracked-glass table is by Wearstler, the range is by Wolf, and the island sink fittings are by Kallista. Near the window is a custom-made sofa in a Lee Jofa velvet.

Use Warm Woods

At the Umbrian estate of architect Benedikt Bolza and his family, the kitchen’s massive oak-top island features sink fittings by KWC.

Add Open Storage

Andy Lewis of Neumann Lewis Buchanan Architects created a new kitchen wing for this historic home in Virginia, which was decorated by Jean Perin and includes a wood island with open storage.

Make It Massive

This townhouse in New York’s Greenwich Village, designed by Leroy Street Studio architects and decorated by Christine Markatos Lowe, features a massive island that spans the kitchen.

Cover It in Marble

The kitchen of decorator Pedro Espírito Santo’s home in Lisbon, Portugal, features a marble island with a cooktop and a 19th-century Italian porcelain figure.

Create Contrast with White

Mix Black and White

The kitchen in this house near Tel Aviv, Israel—renovated by homeowner Joshua Kastiel and architect Alex Meitlis—features a Corian-topped, black-lacquered island.

Center It in the Space

At a Southampton, New York, retreat renovated by interior designer David Netto and architect David Hottenroth, pendant lights by Schoolhouse Electric & Supply Co. illuminate the island, which is paired with BassamFellows tractor stools from Design Within Reach.

Combine Seating and Storage

In the kitchen of an Aspen, Colorado, home designed by Shawn Henderson, a vintage Louis Poulsen pendant light from Lost City Arts hangs above a Caesarstone-top island and Orange Furniture barstools upholstered in an Edelman leather; the hood is by Bulthaup, the cabinetry is by Studio B, the ovens are by Gaggenau, and the sink fittings are by Dornbracht.

Add Standout Stools

The kitchen of a Martha’s Vineyard home designed by Ariel Ashe and Reinaldo Leandro features an island illuminated by minimalist pendant lights by Davide Groppi; the barstools are by Garza Marfa.

Pair with a Table

The kitchen of a Bridgehampton, New York, home designed by Steven Gambrel has plenty of surfaces for prep, including an island and a Gambrel-designed table.

Bring in Shining Surfaces

Sleek ebonized-oak cabinetry, matching flooring, a gleaming island, and black granite counters lend a moody elegance to the revamped kitchen in this Aspen, Colorado, home decorated by Stonefox Architects.

Mix Drawers and Shelves

The kitchen of a Long Island home renovated by designer Daniel Sachs and architect Kevin Lindores includes 1920s American pendant lights over the island and a bespoke copper hood; the range is by Bertazzoni, and the cabinetry at far right is painted in Farrow & Ball’s Hague Blue.

For Merlin Wright, design director for British firm Plain English Designs, which is poised to launch its very first New York studio this spring, the most beautiful kitchens show restraint. “Some American kitchens focus on elaborate details, which can overpower the subtleties of the architecture,” he tells indoneso. While Wright admits there’s no typical British kitchen, Plain English projects certainly embody a different aesthetic than that in the U.S. “What we do are very understated Georgian-inspired kitchens,” he says of the bespoke, made-to-measure service.

We pored through the Plain English project archive for kitchen cabinet ideas and inspiration. Consider your kitchen remodel plan sorted.

PLAIN ENGLISH DESIGNS

Two-tone kitchen cabinets have been popular in recent years, but Wright has a fresh take on the trend. “You can use colors in blocks, so maybe a wall of cupboards in one color and then paint taller cupboards in another one,” he says. “You can also keep all of the cupboards the same color and paint the island an entirely different color,” which Plain English applied to this blue-and-white kitchen with brass faucets.

PLAIN ENGLISH DESIGNS

Unsure whether to choose open shelves or opt for doors? Consider how frequently you’ll use the contents, says Wright. “This is a very personal decision. Open shelves look good when the contents are tidy, but if the objects on the shelves aren’t used regularly, they can get dusty, and so many clients prefer cupboards with doors.”

PLAIN ENGLISH DESIGNS

Renovating on a budget can be challenging, but if there’s one room you shouldn’t scrimp on, it’s the kitchen. When choosing materials, he recommends thinking about how the kitchen will age. “[Our] kitchens are made with high-quality materials that age well. Timber and natural stone in hand-painted finishes are good examples,” he says.

The one finish to avoid? “We don’t use spray finishes, as they look worse with age and wear,” he says. “Everything in the kitchen is meant to age well, and [our designs] are based on models that have withstood hundreds of years and still look great.”

PLAIN ENGLISH DESIGNS

Navy, charcoal, and black cabinets can look sharp and handsome, but Wright says they should only be chosen if your kitchen receives plenty of light. A dark color palette “can help define the form of the cupboards, [but] this sort of coloring can work as long as the room is well-lit.”

PLAIN ENGLISH DESIGNS

A subtle way to add character to your kitchen is by changing the cabinet interior paint color. “Different internal colors in glazed cupboards can add depth and interest to the elevation,” he says. “When using a cupboard with solid doors, it can provide an interesting contrast, like a colorful lining in a business suit.”

If you’re looking for paint color inspiration, he says warm hues are on the rise. “Now we are looking to move away from grays and putty colors to move more toward rich colors such as yellows, browns, and reds.”

PLAIN ENGLISH DESIGNS

“Scale is very important to note when designing a kitchen,” says Wright. Light fixtures and pulls are carefully chosen to complement the space and color scheme and ensure they age well after repeated use. “Drawer pulls are a personal choice for the homeowners, but they should be an appropriate material and size given the color of the kitchen and its overall aesthetic,” he says. “We favor unlacquered brass or iron, which are materials that age nicely with time and use.”

PLAIN ENGLISH DESIGNS

Crisp, bright white might be a popular paint choice in the U.S., but Wright says he tends to avoid the harsh shade. “White is not an incredibly popular color in our kitchens, but if we do white, it’s an off-white or pinkish white because a brilliant white can be quite harsh,” he explains.”

PLAIN ENGLISH DESIGNS

Cabinet color choice has the power to make a kitchen feel spacious or intimate. “Sometimes we match colors when we are working with eye-level cupboards because using the same hues makes the cupboards disappear, rather than stand out and make the room feel tighter,” he explains.

PLAIN ENGLISH DESIGNS

A master of attention to detail, Wright likes to experiment with paint finishes, too. “We do not typically paint two separate shades on a cupboard, but we would use the same hue in two different versions: gloss and eggshell,” he says. “This creates the illusion of two tones.”

PLAIN ENGLISH DESIGNS

Wright’s number one piece of advice? “Avoid gimmicks. Character is added with accessories, such as ceramics and lighting,” he says. There’s no rush to finalize these pieces during the renovation, either. “These items can be added over time.”

PLAIN ENGLISH DESIGNS

Clever storage is at the heart of Plain English designs, but before drafting your dream pantry, Wright says it’s important to honestly assess the contents. “It’s key to be realistic about what needs to be stored,” he says. “For those with a lot of smaller appliances such as mixers or juicers, a counter-standing cupboard or ‘appliance garage’ is a great alternative to the traditional storage space because it blends in with the rest of the kitchen while providing an enclosed space.”

PLAIN ENGLISH DESIGNS

While Plain English specializes in made-to-order kitchens and interiors, Wright loves to balance new cabinets and countertops with reclaimed finds. “A favorite is reclaimed hardware such as faucets, taps, and sinks because they do not look pristine,” he says. “Another way to add character is to use restoration glass, which has a slight wobble to it.”

PLAIN ENGLISH DESIGNS

“Larder” isn’t typically a word we use when talking about American kitchens, but Wright says they’re making a comeback. “Larders are also a brilliant storage idea, and they are becoming more popular in the U.S.,” he tells indoneso. “The idea is quite an old-fashioned one, as the true larder was meant for a time before fridges. Similar to a pantry, a larder is a good way of reaching for things you use regularly like spices, herbs, or teas,” he says. “They can be turned into a sort of mini kitchen if you choose to add a sink.”

Building a shipping container home seems pretty straightforward in theory. There are millions of excess shipping containers laying around in ports around the world, and they are the perfect size for a home. If you want a multi-story or larger square footage home, you simply stack a few shipping containers on top of one another and, voila, you’ve got a home. Unfortunately, things are never as easy as they seem from the outset. When it comes to building a shipping container home, there are several things you need to know to make sure that your home is structurally sound, sustainable, and singularly beautiful.

1. See Before you Buy

You would never purchase a used car without first inspecting it and taking it for a test drive. When purchasing a used shipping container, you will most likely not be able to do a complete “walk through”, especially if it is currently located at some obscure port on the other side of the world. However, you can ask the seller for detailed pictures and a thorough description of the container.

Older shipping containers, especially, might have several dents, issues with rust, or other structural problems that come with a lifetime of being tossed around on the high seas. One-trip containers are a little bit more expensive, though they are almost assured to be in great shape, and might be worth the investment if you want to avoid the work (and expense) of fixing a container that is all dented up.

2. Know Your Building Code Restrictions

Many towns and cities might have certain restrictions against building a shipping container home. Before you invest several thousand dollars in used shipping containers, make sure you check on your local and state building codes. A good introduction to state building codes and shipping container construction can be found here.

3. Make Sure You Have a Plan for Insulating

An unfinished steel shipping container will be unbearably hot during the summer and freezing cold in the winter unless you have a good plan for adding needed insulation. When designing your shipping container home, ask certain contractors about insulation ideas, and remember that you will have to heavily insulate the roof as well as the walls. Blanket-style insulation will need an interior stud wall, while foam insulation can be sprayed directly onto the wall. If you are exploring a more green or sustainable alternative, consider sheep wool or even adding a green roof onto the top of your shipping container home.

4. Find a Complete Contractor

Instead of attempting to deal with one contractor for placing and modifying your unfinished containers and others for the interior finishing work, it is best to search for one contractor that can oversee the entire process. Since shipping container construction is still a relatively new niche in the building industry, it can be difficult to find contractors with relevant experience. Here is a list of 16 companies around the USA who specialize in shipping container construction as pre-built homes.

5. Protect Against Harmful Chemicals

If you are purchasing used shipping containers for your home, it is important to understand that these containers were designed for a lifetime at sea. The wood flooring on most shipping containers includes heavy pesticides to deter rats and rodents from eating through the flooring. Furthermore, the paint on these containers often contains chemicals to protect the containers from saltwater spray from the oceans.

To avoid these harmful chemicals in your shipping container home, you can either choose to buy a new shipping container that does not have these chemical issues or make some adjustments. Consider ripping up the pesticide-infested wood flooring and installing your own flooring. Foam insulation on the interior of the shipping container will protect from any off gassing from harmful chemical paints.

6. Avoid Cutting Your Containers into Pieces

Shipping containers are extremely strong since they are built out of solid steel and the walls can certainly be load bearing if you want to add a second story or build a separate roof structure. However, each time you cut a hole into your shipping container for an extra door or window you are debilitating the structural integrity of the container and will most likely have to invest in a steel beam reinforcement. The more you cut into your container, the more reinforcement it will need, and the higher your budget will rise.

7. Plan Ahead for Plumbing and Electrical

When designing your shipping container home, make sure you have a good idea where the plumbing and electrical lines will enter and leave your home. Ask your contractor to cut the holes for plumbing and electrical lines before finishing the interior so that you can avoid having to move your kitchen cabinets to cut a hole to run that one extra pipe you forgot about.

8. Know the Difference between Containers

Not all shipping containers are the same. While traditional shipping containers are eight-feet tall, high cube containers add an extra foot in height. If you are planning to heavily insulate your floor or ceiling, you can be left with a house that ends up being strangely “Hobbitish.” While high cube containers are usually about $1,000 more expensive than regular shipping containers, the extra height can certainly come in handy.

9. Prepare for the Wind

Shipping container homes placed in windy areas will most likely lead to a noisy home. Because of their rectangular shape, these types of homes are the opposite of aerodynamic. Strong winds and gusts will then most likely hit the walls of the home and cause interior noise. If you live in a windy area, consider placing your home behind a windbreak or in an area that protects your home from the piercing winds.

10. Avoid Excessive Welding to Cut Costs

While one shipping container can perfectly be modelled into a tiny home, when you want more square footage you will have to purchase several containers. Shipping containers need to be welded together for added structural integrity. The problem, of course, is that welding is expensive so design accordingly to try to limit the amount of welding that needs to be done.

11. Consider Local and Vernacular Options First

While many people are interested in shipping container housing because of the sustainability aspect, it is best to always begin with local and vernacular options first. Shipping containers are heavy and the transportation required to move them from some distant port to your home site can have a large environmental impact. Shipping container construction is most sustainable if you can find a used container that is being sold relatively close to your region, especially if you live near a port. Furthermore, consider combining vernacular construction methods with shipping container homes, such as using straw bales and natural plasters for interior insulation and walls.

12. Be Willing to Spend the Extra Dollar

While many people are attracted to shipping container homes because of the supposed affordability, it is important to understand that completely finishing the exterior and interior of a shipping container home can add up in cost. As with almost construction styles, the larger your home, the more expensive it will be. The extra cost associated with welding, insulating, and finishing a multi-container home might end up being just as expensive as a regular stick-framed house.

One of the main struggles of a small bathroom is the lack of storage. You can minimize, sure, but there are always a few things you will definitely need in your bathroom: towels, makeup, toothpaste, etc. And where do you put all that stuff? Some small bathrooms have very little (or nothing) in the way of storage in cabinets, or closets, which is when more enterprising small space dwellers turn to a less obvious storage spot: the wall.

Here’s a trick that’s as elegant as it is practical: mounting a shelf to the wall underneath your bathroom mirror. As seen on Atelier Dore, this a great way to provide a catchall for necessities in a bathroom with a sink that doesn’t allow for much counter space.

If there’s a wall to either the left of the right of your sink, that’s a great spot for some wall-mounted shelves. This bathroom from The Everygirl demonstrates that beautifully, with a set of easy-access shelves that have a distinct minimalist feel.

Another great spot for wall-mounted shelves? Above the toilet. Finding a spot for all that extra toilet paper can be tricky, but in this bathroom from Brooklyn Limestone, stacking toilet paper on shelves above the loo makes a stylish statement.

If you prefer to conceal your paper, you can opt for a wall-mounted cabinet above the toilet, like this one from IKEA. I once had a boss at an architecture firm who called these “head-banger” cabinets, but you can avoid that by choosing one with a slim profile.

In this bathroom from Rock My Style, a tall and thin wall-mounted cabinet revolutionizes the storage situation. Wall-mounted cabinets feel visually lighter than ones that sit on the floor, and they can actually take up less space, too.

If there’s a little space between your toilet and the wall, that could be a great place for some shelves, like these from The Order Obsessed. These particular shelves take advantage of a deeper nook, but even if your shelves are only three or four inches deep, they can hold toilet paper and bathroom supplies.

In this bathroom spotted on Zevy Joy, a series of baskets, mounted to the wall, is the perfect landing spot for towels of various sizes. This is the shelves-above-the-toilet look, but with a textural twist.

In this bathroom from This Charming Life, a wire basket, mounted to the wall beside the sink, holds toiletries but keeps them within easy reach. This is a great way to supplement an overtaxed medicine cabinet.

Another place to look for storage is above the door. These wire shelves from IKEA hold extra towels and supplies, and since they’re up high, they can be quite deep without protruding too far into the room.

Here’s a nice idea from Design Sponge, that will work in even the smallest of spaces: corner shelves. Mount them next to a sink, or up high to provide a landing spot for a few extra towels or storage baskets.

Finding a place to hang up towels, particularly in a bathroom shared by multiple people, can be a real challenge. Enter this solution from Jenna Burger Design: Mount towel bars to the back of the bathroom door. Follow the link for instructions for mounting a towel bar to a hollow-core door.

You can also add storage behind the door with a wall-mounted storage system, like this Elfa one from Howards Storage World. You can find more examples at the Container Store. (If you don’t like everything out in the open, these may not be an ideal solution, but I once had a pantry with a rack like this on the door, and you’d be shocked how much they can hold.)

IKEA‘s Trones storage boxes are designed for shoes, but their slim profile makes them a great candidate for all kinds of other storage too, particularly in places where space is at a premium. They’re only 7 inches deep and can slip into little nooks and crannies, providing a perfect catchall for bathroom necessities.

You heard it right, 2019 trends are finally here! To kick off the batch of articles we will be releasing over the next couple months is our 2019 Bathroom Design Trends. Get the inside scoop on the most up to date styles in the industry and find some inspiration for your next bathroom remodel! From bathtubs and showers, to sinks and vanities, we got you covered.

The newest textures, patterns, prints, finishes, and styles of all sorts are here for the coming year. This round-up contains the hottest designs that can give you the right type of inspiration you didn’t even know you needed. Whether you are building a new home or planning a renovation, the list is sure to spark some creativity. From chic and modern to industrial and vintage, whatever your personal style may be, 2019 is your year for bathroom remodeling.

1.BLACK IS THE NEW GREY

Grey may have been one of the most popular styles in 2016 and 2017 bathroom remodeling projects, however, that’s all about to change.We’re moving on to bolder, darker styles this season. Grey is great, but black is better! In our Top Trends for Bathrooms of 2018 article we stated that darker tones were starting to pick up and that it would continue to gain popularity. Well guess what? Their time is now! That’s right, darker tones, specifically black, are here.

We saw so many grey bathrooms this past year, but expect to see an increase in black bathrooms.This trend is most popular in light fixtures, vanities, mirrors, and other fixtures- especially with matte finishes! Since some homeowners may be hesitant when it comes to adding these even darker tones to their homes, grey may continue to be a top choice for those looking to stray away from a classic white or neutral color, but aren’t quite ready for the boldness of black.

2. BATHROOMS OF THE FUTURE

Last year we talked about smart toilets, but this year the whole bathroom is getting a high-tech upgrade. In our 2018 articles we discussed high-tech toilets increasing popularity as a trend lead by Japan. The toilets saw things like seat warmers, automatic lid openers, adjustable air dryers, built-in deodorizers and more. If you were impressed with that technology, just wait till you hear about the rest of the bathroom. In 2019, bathrooms will see smart showers, mini fridges, and automatic sinks. We recently remodeled a home that allowed for the homeowner to set his shower to start automatically.

This means by the time he got home from work, his shower was hot and ready! Another more common trend is the built-in blue tooth speaker system. Now you can easily jam out or wind down with the sounds of your shower. Voice activated features for lighting and temperature, smart mirrors that talk to you, and increased TV installments are just a few of the other fun trends we’ve seen, but the possibilities are endless. Modern day bathrooms are transforming into personalized day spas, and these technologies make the experience more relaxing and convenient than ever before.

3. BRASS & GOLD WITH A VINTAGE COMEBACK

Gold fixtures are back and better than ever! Shades of brass and gold are taking over sinks, toilets, and basically anything and everything in your bathroom this year. Erase the memories of your Grandparent’s bathroom brass faucet, because this lovely new warm toned gold plumbing fixtures will become your new go to, adding just the right amount of depth, dimension, and luxury feel to any space.

Homeowners love the change to warmer accents with the brass/gold toned bathroom fixtures versus the traditional shiny polished chrome which conveys a more cool, modern, and sleek feel. Offered in new finish options like in satin, matte, and spun gold this subtle change is just what was needed to add that classic traditional element to any space. With the added bonus of keeping fingerprints and water spots hidden.

This warmer tone has become the accent pieces of a room, with complimenting hardware, light fixtures, and mirrors as well.

Look around and you will find more gold tone items than you think. The reason for the comeback–it just looks great in so many different style settings.

This image by Society Hill Modern Bathroom perfectly encompasses the idea of golden fixtures making a vintage statement in a modern day setting.

4. INDUSTRIAL STYLED SINKS & VANITIES

While this style may not be for everyone, it’s very current and you should expect to see an increase in popularity for this type of design with the coming year! With all the metal finish possibilities, wooden accents, and funky tile patterns, it only makes sense that the industrial vanity is in. Its sleek and modern look fits in perfectly with this edgy, yet classy remodeling trend. Industrial sinks can be matched with pop’s of colors, gold or brass accents, matte black fixtures, and fun tile patterns to modernize the look even more. Industrial vanities are a great look for smaller apartments or your hall bathroom. This urbanized and trendy style is sure to make a statement in 2019, so don’t miss out!.

5. TILE PATTERNS & SHAPES THAT YOU WILL LOVE

We have already seen how technology is allowing manufacturers to create all sorts of designs using basic tiles, but now they are going beyond the colors and graphics to change the traditional tile shape into something more interesting.

We are seeing a resurgence of the once beloved tiles of decades past, plus a few new designs. No longer are we content with just a subway tile or a large format tile on the wall. We have lots of tile shapes to choose from once again. So, look for new and improved hexagon, arabesque, diamond, Moroccan fish scales, or chevron patterns in new colors & textures. These eye-catching shapes will not just grace the floor either; they will also be used as bathroom backsplashes, on shower walls, and possibly ceiling accents to create the bold accents we so desire.

If you are looking for a safe way of livening up your bathroom, this is one of the best trends to try out in 2019.

6. WOOD ACCENTS ARE BACK & TRENDIER THAN EVER

As mentioned early in this post, grey is slowly making it’s way out of home remodeling trends. With this comes the return of warmer tones and accents- specifically wooden ones! Various shades of wood can compliment white, blue, green, and darker colored bathroom. Practically anywhere! Wood accents pair nicely with vintage and industrial trends so it’s no surprise that they’re popping up again. This look adds a classically traditional style to you other wise trendy and modern bathroom. We’re seeing it in unique styles too! Some of the pictures below showcase just a few of the possibilities available when choosing wood tones for your 2019 bathroom remodel. Check it out!

7. COMPACT STORAGE SPACES FOR ALL YOU NEAT FREAKS

Sick of over crammed, messy cabinet spaces? So are we. 2019 Bathrooms will display simpler ways of life as they minimize item storage and the space required. Compacted storage areas, cabinets, shelves, etc. will be presented in a simplified manner that promotes minimalist habits. This lifestyle is believed to help relieve stress and keep you ore organized. Even if your other rooms are not as minimal, the bathroom is a relaxation sanctuary and compact storage can effectively provide just that. Hidden cabinets, modern wall shelving, and vanity under space storage will appear less cluttered, allowing the entire bathroom to feel more open and organized.

8. POPS OF COLOR TO SPICE UP YOUR LIFE

As we continue to stray further and further from gray tones, we expect to see an increase of colorful accents, fixtures, and accessories in bathrooms. These pops of color pair nicely with a neutral shade, either light or dark! You may have heard of green or blue kitchens becoming more popular, and while this is true, expect to see those colors in upcoming 2019 bathroom remodels.

The specific color chosen can be used to set various moods. For example, pops of blue in homes is said to increase relaxation levels. On the other hand, green brings about the feelings of nature and wellness. Other colors may even boost your mood and creativity levels. This is a fun way to add a unique touch to your otherwise blah bathroom! Which color would you want to add during your 2019 bathroom design remodel?

9. PRETTY IN PINK

When it comes to color options for 2019 design trends, there’s some we prefer in a pop, and then there’s some we want all over. Shades of blush will continue to prevail in 2019 bathroom trends. Blush is one of the most popular wall color choices for modern bathroom walls. Another notable trend that isn’t quite there yet, but slowly starting to reveal itself is rose gold. This color will soon not just be for your latest Iphone, but also for faucets, drawer pulls, and even bathtubs. Keep your eyes peeled, we expect to see this become quite trendy in the next few years. Until then, enjoy blush!

This blush bathroom with gold accents and unique pattern tiles is by Capitol Hill Bathrooms

Blush can come in an array of shades! Painted by Dulux.

10. GET COMFY! BIG BATHTUBS & OPEN SHOWERS

As the bathroom changes, the possibilities for expansion and more space come to mind. In fact, the goal of having more space is oftentimes the number one reason why home owners choose to remodel. This includes the bathroom too! With compact storage options, you give yourself more room to expand on the bath or shower.

Big Bathtubs

The bigger the bathtub, the more space and relaxation will be available to you. Homeowners deserve a place to wind down after a long day, and what better place to do so than their own bathrooms? While Jacuzzi styled tubs aren’t necessarily are popular as they used to be, we’re seeing a shift in preferences to other large tub styles.

Open Showers

Open showers appear to visually increase the size of your bathroom, while also giving it more space and providing convenience for users. Long gone are the days of worrying about slipping over the edge of the tub while you’re trying to get out and dry off. While some may find this design has a lack of privacy, others enjoy the accessible openness and increased shower space.

11. ASYMMETRICAL & ADVANCED MIRRORS

Asymmetrical Mirrors are here and better than ever before. Unique and geometric mirror shapes are all the buzz, but that’s not all! Mirrors, just like the rest of the bathroom are becoming smarter. Mirrors can have anti-fog technologies, smart touch abilities, USB charging stations, and just about anything else you can imagine. Long gone are the days of plated mirrors.

With shaped frame options taking over, you have the ability to get as creative as possible when it comes to picking out the exact style. And we have not forgotten about the most important detail of bathroom mirrors- lighting. It’s all about the lighting. Getting ready in your sleek and stylish bathroom would mean nothing if you didn’t come out looking flawless, right?!

While we all love the idea of fun shapes and gadgets, functionality is at the top of our list. This is why we are seeing contemporary back lit mirrors as well a front lights increasing in popularity. Back lit mirrors are a more subtle option that will allow for optimal lighting. Lights in the front allow for more creativity, but may distract away from an asymmetrical mirror shape.Keep scrolling for some photo inspiration!

12. STAY WARM THIS WINTER WITH UNDERFLOOR HEATING SYSTEMS

If you bought a pair of slippers just to escape the cold sensation on the bottom of your feet while walking across your bathroom floor; then it might be a good investment for you to consider adding a heating system under your floor. When the temperatures outside are dropping–your wish could become a reality.

Underfloor heating can be used with a variety of flooring options like: tile, concrete, vinyl, and wood to name a few. But in a bathroom, the cold tile can transform into a beautiful soothing warm floor. Heating systems not only provide heat, but they can also reduce noise levels and possible allergic reactions since there are no air currents disturbing dust.

More and more technology is being included in bathrooms, which means more small appliances are being integrated. For instance, some luxury bathroom designs now feature a beverage center or under counter refrigerators near the makeup area or vanity for your medicines or organic facial remedies. Or you may find some home bathroom designs featuring warming drawers for linens & robes. Aside from the traditional dryers in the makeup area, you can also have wireless music systems, TV’s, cooling or warming systems, and so on.

The bathroom used to be the place where electric appliances were a no-no. Now, it can rival the kitchen in the number of gadgets and the amount of tech in it. This trend will continue in 2019, especially in master bathroom designs.